Day 3 - Alpine to Jacumba - A Climbing Experince

We were told that this was the biggest climbing day of the trip. And climb we did, over 4,500 feet. That’s a new climbing record for me! While it wasn’t easy, it was 11% in a few spots, overall it was easier than the previous day. There were long uphills and long glorious downhills. The downhills were very thrilling!!! At one point I hit 36.8 mph. It’s a good thing I wasn’t looking at my computer, else I would have put on the breaks. Yesterday was one long interminable uphill. The variety of today’s geography broke up the work and made it quite doable. 

Today was the most climbing we will do. The only remaining tough climbing day is when we cross the Continental Divide. You always wonder if you are going to be strong enough to do these climbs. I am feeling good about my abilities after today. Here we are smiling after a big climb.

If you see a sign like this, it must means you accomplished something.



The day was full of unique experiences. We did three to four miles on the shoulder of Interstate 8. This is allowed if there are not any paved roads in the area. For safety reasons you have to take every exit. Cars entering via the on ramps are not accustomed to looking out for slow bicycles. While having 18-wheelers blow past you is a bit discerning, the other worry of cyclists is the remnants of truck tires. They have wire in them that can work through your tire and puncture the tube. Afterwards, we ran our hands over the bike tires. If we found a wire we pulled it our with tweezers. Fortunately I didn’t have any. Here is the group getting ready to ride on Interstate 8.



At one point we turned a bend and there was the Mexican/American border wall. It goes on in both directions as far as we can see.


We are in the high desert now. Very barren and windy with interesting rock formations. 


We are staying in a clothing optional “resort”. I did see a few unclothed folk by the pool where clothing is not allowed…. Here is a refrigerator magnet from our room.


Today’s route, elevation and other data.

TodayRide Total
Miles Rode:52.35123.4
Elevation Gain (feet):4,6858509
Pedaling Time:5:009:40
Average Speed (mph): 10.5
Maximum Speed (mph)36.8




Comments

  1. KerryMarch 14, 2022 at 9:46 AM

    eewww!

    ReplyDelete
  2. DennisMarch 14, 2022 at 10:30 AM

    I am living vicariously through your adventure. I had to increase my oxygen flow just to read this. Sounds like you are having a lot of fun.

    ReplyDelete
  3. MJGMarch 22, 2022 at 1:40 AM

    And you’re still smiling! Go Lynn!

    ReplyDelete
  4. G CuriousMarch 22, 2022 at 6:52 AM

    Glad to hear things are going well. Have fun.

    ReplyDelete

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